New Testament
Revelation 11:9
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For three and a half days, people from every nation, tribe, language, and ethnic group will look at their dead bodies and will not allow them to be buried.
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And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.
What Revelation 11:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Revelation 11:9, the scene depicts a powerful moment where the bodies of two witnesses, who have been killed for their testimony, lie in the streets. For three and a half days, people from all over the world will gaze upon them, symbolizing the global attention and disdain for these witnesses. The refusal to bury the bodies signifies a deep disrespect and a desire to publicly shame them. This event highlights the intense opposition faced by those who stand for truth and righteousness, as well as the eventual vindication that follows. The imagery serves to illustrate the spiritual battle between good and evil, where the witnesses' death is celebrated by their enemies, yet it foreshadows their resurrection and ultimate victory. This passage emphasizes the idea that even in death, the faithful will not be forgotten, and their message will continue to resonate, challenging the world to recognize the truth they proclaimed.
How to apply Revelation 11:9 to your life
This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even when facing opposition or ridicule. It reminds us that our witness can have a lasting impact, and that God honors those who stand for truth, even in difficult circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. Revelation Summary
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Revelation 11:9
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At a Glance — the Book of Revelation
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 95
- Genre
- Apocalyptic prophecy
- Original Audience
- The seven churches of Asia Minor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Revelation 11:9 mean?
Revelation 11:9 describes a scene where the bodies of two witnesses lie in the streets for three and a half days, attracting attention from people worldwide. This symbolizes the global disdain for these witnesses who were killed for their testimony, highlighting the opposition faced by those who stand for truth.
What is the significance of the three and a half days in Revelation 11:9?
The three and a half days in Revelation 11:9 represents a limited period of time during which the witnesses are publicly shamed and disrespected. This timeframe emphasizes the temporary nature of their defeat before their eventual resurrection and victory.
Who are the witnesses mentioned in Revelation 11:9?
The witnesses in Revelation 11:9 are two figures who testify to God's truth and face persecution for their message. Their deaths and the subsequent events highlight the spiritual battle between good and evil.
What themes are present in Revelation 11:9?
Revelation 11:9 presents themes of witness, global attention, opposition to truth, disrespect for the faithful, resurrection, and victory over evil. These themes emphasize the challenges faced by believers and the hope of vindication.
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